William Stone

Feb 8, 1928 -

Feb 27, 2025

William Gibson Stone passed away peacefully at home after dinner with his family, enjoying a mug of red wine, a bowl of ice cream and a cookie. Born on Feb. 8, 1928, in Glendale, Calif., Bill had a lifelong love of reading, writing, history, travel and connecting with people. A devoted father and grandfather, he prioritized staying in touch with family and friends across the country.

The youngest of three sons, Bill spent an adventurous childhood exploring the hills, mountains and beaches of Southern California. He attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he studied English and became a passionate fan of Cal football. After graduating in 1953, he joined the American Red Cross, which sent him to Europe. In Munich, he worked his way up to Field Office Director, made lifelong friends, skied the Alps, hunted in the mountains of Turkey and traveled extensively—always enjoying a glass of red wine each evening. There, he met and married Karola and had their son, Willy.

In 1960, when offered a transfer to Alaska or Australia, Bill and Karola chose Alaska and never regretted it. He embraced the outdoors, hunting, fishing and skiing. When the Red Cross sought to relocate him, he decided to stay in Alaska, becoming an English teacher with the Anchorage School District. He was a founding teacher at Romig Middle School, where he taught for 30 years and coached riflery, cross-country skiing and running, and track and field. He also started the West High tennis team and became a student favorite by rewarding players with a Shakey's pizza party for winning seasons.

After retiring, Bill spent long days fishing in Seward and Homer, traveling to visit family and friends, and enjoying life with his longtime companion, Georgine Dimino. His final years were spent with family and friends in Anchorage, always engaging with others and appreciating his long, healthy life.

He is survived by his son, Willy; daughter-in-law, Cathy; grandsons, Kyle, Derek, and Jakob; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends, including the Berbig and French families. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

Bill requested no public service. To share memories or offer condolences, please emailakwilly13@gmail.com.